Aberdare Mountains - UNESCO World Heritage Centre Aberdare Mountains Coordinates: S00 08 E36 05 Ref.: 5506 Word File Disclaimer The Secretariat of the United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and the World Heritage Centre do not represent or endorse the accuracy or reliability of any advice, opinion, statement or other information or documentation provided by the States Parties to the World Heritage Convention to the Secretariat of UNESCO or to the World Heritage Centre. The publication of any such advice, opinion, statement or other information documentation on the World Heritage Centre’s website and/or on working documents also does not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Secretariat of UNESCO or of the World Heritage Centre concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its boundaries. Property names are listed in the language in which they have been submitted by the State Party Description The Aberdare (or Nyandarua) mountains are an isolated volcanic range that forms the easternmost wall of the Great Rift Valley, to the east of the high Kinangop/Laikipia plateau.

They are around 100 km long from north to south (the northern end almost reaching the equator). There are two main peaks, Ol Donyo Lesatima (3,999 m) to the north and Kinangop (3, 906 m) to the south, separated by a long 'saddle' of land above 3,000 m. The small peak of Kipipiri (3, 349m) flanks the main range to the west, linked to it by a formerly forested valley at around 2,700 m. Deep ravines cut through the forested eastern and western slopes and there are many clear streams and waterfalls. The park is renowned for its torrential waterfalls plunging from cloud-shrouded heights to spray-filled ravines. They include the magnificent Karuru falls, which drop 300m, the impressive Gura falls which torrent from the opposite side of the same Gorge, the drop of the Chania falls and the enchanting Gura falls which cascade across the yawning mouth of the Queen's Cave.

Mist and rain occur throughout much of the year, with precipitation varying from around 1,000 mm on the drier north-western slopes to as much as 3,000 mm in the south-east. The vegetation varies with altitude. A rich alpine and sub-alpine flora, including species of Senecio spp, Lobelia spp, Erica spp, Helichrysum spp and tussock grasses, gives way at around 3,000 m to bamboo Arundinaria alpine and then montane rainforest (mainly Juniperus procerus-Podocarpus falcatus-Nuxia congesta forest on the western and northwestern slopes, ocotea forest on the south-east, and mixed Podocarpus latifolius forest on the east and on Kipipiri (Beentje 1990). Pockets of Hagenia forest occur in sheltered patches on the rolling moorland (Ojwang et al. 2006). The National Park lies mainly above the tree line, with some forest and scrub at lower altitude in the salient near Nyeri.

The Aberdares Forest Reserve (103,300 ha) occupies the lower slopes, in three main blocks that almost surround the Park, with Kipipiri Forest Reserve (5,100 ha) tacked on to the west. The southern boundary of the Aberdares Forest Reserve adjoins the Kikuyu Escarpment Forest. The Aberdares are an extremely important water catchment for the Tana River system, for the northern Ewaso Nyiro River and for Lake Naivasha, and provide much of the water supply for Nairobi and adjoining districts.

Wildlife in the area The Aberdares hold 52 of Kenya's 67 Afro tropical Highlands' species The rare species include the Bongo (Tragelaphus euryceros) estimated at over 65 individuals in forest (KWS 2002), Leopard (Panthera pardus), Black Rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis), African Elephant (Loxodonta africana) (some 1,500 are resident:) and Giant Forest Hog (Hylochoerus meinertzhageni) and a population of Lions (Panthera leo), the African Golden Cat (Felis aurata), a rare species and Spotted Hyena (Crocuta Crocuta) (KWS 2005). Endemic small mammals include Aberdare Mole-shrew (Surdisorex norae) and Aberdare Mole rat (Tachyoryctes audax).

The Montane viper (Vipera hindii) occurs only here and on Mt Kenya, and the Aberdares hold several amphibians that are endemic to the central Kenyan highlands, including Hyperolius montanus, Hyperolius cystocandieans, Rana wittei and Phrynobatrachus kinangopensis. The butterfly (Neptis kikuyuensis) is endemic to forests and on the Kikuyu Escarpment, and Charaxes nandina, endemic to central Kenya, has also been recorded (Larsen 1991). The Range has six of the eight restricted range species in the Kenyan Mountains Endemic Bird Area. Over 200 species are recorded in all, including African Green Ibis, African Cuckoo Hawk, Mountain Buzzard, Jackson's and Moorland Francolins, Hartlaub's Turaco and Cape Eagle-Owl. The Scarlet-tufted Malachite Sunbird is found on the high peaks, foraging largely on lobelias, while other montane sunbirds (including Tacazze, Golden-winged, Malachite and Eastern Double-collared) are common at slightly lower altitudes.

The restricted-range Aberdare Cisticola appears to be locally common in tussock moorland. Other vulnerable bird species found in the forest include Sharpe's Longclaw, Abbott's Starling, Aberdare Cisticola, Jackson's Francolin, Hunter's Cisticola, and Striped Flufftail (Bennun & Njoroge 1996). Notable plants include the Aberdare endemics Lobelia deckenii sattimae and Helichrysum gloria-dei, and the Aberdare/Mt Kenya endemics Lobelia bambuseti, Senecio keniensis, Senecio johnstonii battiscombei var. battiscombei and Senecio keniodendron. The Aberdares are rich in the genus Alchemilla, including A. hageniae (endemic), A. argyrophylla (also on Mt Kenya), A. cyclophylla (also on Mt Kenya) and the rare A. microbetula (also on Mt. Elgon).

Justification of Outstanding Universal Value (iii), (vii) and (ix): Aberdares mountains present one of the most impressive landscapes of Eastern Africa, with its unusual vegetation, rugged terrain, streams and water falls (Karuru and Chania falls) that create an area of great scenic beauty. The high moorlands and diverse forests demonstrate exceptional ecological processes. The forest also has a rich history, freedom fighter Dedan Kimathi used as a post office, a giant tree where the Mau Mau would leave messages for Kimathi's attention. The Queen's Caves also found here were used by the Mau Mau (freedom fighters) to preserve their meat. The Aberdares were believed by the kikuyu to be one of the homes of Ngai (God) and originally known as Nyandarua "the drying hide" due to the distinctive fold of its silhouette. Statements of authenticity and/or integrity The Aberdares is managed by the Kenya Wildlife service and Kenya Forest Service. Conservation issues The Aberdare Mountains are one of Kenya's major water catchment areas, surrounded for the most part by intensive, small-scale agriculture.

The high moorland is well protected and appears relatively safe, but habitat on the lower slopes has been severely damaged in recent years. Forest destruction and degradation is the major threat to the site, through agricultural encroachment, illegal Cannabis sativa gardens, poaching of valuable trees and forest grazing of livestock. Forest fires, either accidental or deliberately set (especially by honey collectors), have destroyed or damaged large tracts of forest during recent dry periods. Human-wildlife conflict has long been intense around the borders of the National Park salient and the forest reserves. Marauding animals regularly damage crops, and occasionally kill or injure people. On the moorland, the status of two of the threatened species - Sharpe's Longclaw and Aberdare Cisticola - remains little known, and needs investigation. The unusual vegetation, rugged terrain, streams and waterfalls combine to create an area of great scenic beauty in the National Park, which has tremendous potential for eco-tourism.

Comparison with other similar properties In Kenya the Aberdares can be compared to Mount Kenya as they are both areas of great scenic beauty and are important water catchment areas, both have afro-alpine flora, endemic plant species that are unique to these areas; that provide outstanding examples of ecological processes. Virunga National Park in Congo can also be compared to Aberdares although they are slightly different in that the Ruwenzori Mountains are volcanic while the Aberdares formed due to tectonic movement during the formation of the Great Rift valley; both are areas of great exceptional beauty due to the unusual vegetation that is almost similar, rugged terrain, are important bird areas, have a rich concentration of wildlife i.e. elephants, buffalo, primates, among other animals all these make the areas, areas of outstanding universal value. The main difference is in the species composition the Aberdares has the eastern Arc species while the Virunga and Ruwenzori has central afro alpine vegetation and fauna influence by the vast Congo Basin.

Aberdare Country Club, Nyeri - Kenya - AfricanMecca Safaris & Tours Aberdare Country Club GUIDE ON ABERDARE COUNTRY CLUB IN KENYA For a stress-free holiday in Kenya, Aberdare Country Club offers a range of activities in the Nyeri region of the Aberdare Highlands in the Great Rift Valley. The accommodation is a rural blend of outdoor leisure and excursions in a homely setting. You will enjoy every moment of being within 1300 acres of pristine forest and wild gardens on the slope of Mweiga Hill with incredible views of it wildlife sanctuary, Aberdare Mountains to the western hilltops and Mount Kenya to the eastern highlands. The diversity of animals will satisfy even the most discerning budget-conscious traveler in Aberdare National Park as the fauna includes giraffes, duikers, monkeys, Thomson’s and Grant’s gazelles and other grazing herbivores. Although more elusive leopards, spotted hyenas, rare African golden cats and other stealthy predators are also found in the area.

More than 250 bird species have been identified in the Aberdare Mountains, and sunbirds are most prominent around the country club, with Tacazze, Double-collared, Golden-winged and Malachite being four of the seven species that have been identified in the gardens and surrounding property. As you partake of the many AfricanMecca tour experiences of Aberdare National Park , keep an eye out for the rare Bongo, a timid reddish-brown antelope that retreats quickly when exposed. Although largely nocturnal, this animal does occasionally come out during the day. Aberdare Country Club offers 46 rooms and 2 suites are situated in country-style guest cottages. Some of the cottages have interconnecting bedrooms with either queen/double beds or two twins. While these rooms are generally comfortable, you may experience sound from the neighboring room when booked by different guests. Three and five-bedroom cottages are also available, as well as a standard suite, two deluxe rooms, a VIP suite and three specialty cottages. The Honey Suckle Cottage is highly recommended should you prefer more privacy and superb views.

Also, some cottages are set higher up on Mweiga Hill and require you to climb many steps, which may be difficult for AfricanMecca guests with limited agility. Your leisurely vacation in Africa’s Aberdare Mountains allows for plenty of time to experience the natural beauty and activities however you wish. Start your day with a hot breakfast before playing a round of golf at the 9-hole course. Watch for zebras and warthogs, though, as they frequently wander onto the fairway. After lunch, take a relaxing guided nature walk with your family or horseback excursion around the private reserve ( read more on when is the best time to visit Aberdare ). For an adventurous, one-of-a-kind East African safari trip, plan a full day game drive that includes a hike up the highest peak of the Aberdare Range. Late in the afternoon, have a relaxing massage, swim in the pool or browse the gift shop for souvenirs and sundries. The Aberdare Mountains are most awe-inspiring at sunset, so before sampling a dinner of Indian and intercontinental food, you should find a comfortable place next to the pool or arrange sundowners on Kamatongu Hill to watch the sun sink below the horizon.

Aberdare Mountains of Kenya Mountain Information - Menu | General map of Aberdares | Map of Satima Aberdare Mountains 3999m This range forms a natural north-south barrier between Mt Kenya and Kikuyu country to the east, and the Rift Valley to the west, rarely dropping below 3000m over the entire 60km length. The steep western slopes over-looking the Rift Valley floor are a complete contrast to the eastern side where game-filled forests drop gently down to fertile cultivated foothills and valleys. The higher regions are moorlands covered by marshes, tussock grasses, heathers and small bushes; as a result, away from the main paths and game trails, the going is generally tedious. Most of the area is a National Park subject to the normal enttry charges (see Mt Kenya section). It is generally open to walking in the moorland zones but it is best to inquire at Park HQ in Mweiga (tel. Mweiga 24) for any restrictions.

The highest summit, Oldonyo Lesatima, or Satima (3999m), is approached most easily from the south-east; the alternative approach from the north involves tougher walking and the access is more difficult, though the fine, remote mountain scenery and unusual rock formations make this a rewarding trip. Kinangop (3906m) is located in the southern part of the range. The walk up to it from the south is rather tedious on account of extensive bamboo forest then pathless tussock grasses. The world famous game-viewing lodges Treetops and The Ark are both found in forests on the east side of the range. Though very expensive they are well worth a visit. Camping is permitted at Park Gates and at recognised campsites (see map); it is best to obtain permission to camp elsewhere. Two huts provide very simple shelters; one is on the approach to Satima from the south, the other just below The Elephant. A pleasant, simple forestry rest house with campsite beside it provides a good base for the walk up to Kinangop; permission to use this facility for a nominal cost should be obtained from Forestry Department Offices in Nairobi.

Under an overhang below the Western Twin there is a cave shelter (3400m). This provides a fine base for the ascent of Satima. Access. Nyeri can be easily reached from Nairobi (147km). For the Wandare Gate, continue 20km north to Solio and turn left onto a sign posted dirt road leading in a further 13km to the gate (ignore the first sign-posted track left shortly after Mweiga which is poorer). The track climbs west through forests for 12km where it swings south and becomes level (3240m); at this point a steep track continues west and leads in 4.5km to a saddle (3600m) on the south ridge of Satima. 500m from the turn-off, at 3280m, there is a hut offering a basic shelter and a camp site. To reach South Kinangop village take the more easterly road to Nakuru (the Uplands road) and just before the turn-off to Naivasha (150km) turn right to reach the village in a further 20km on tarmac.

From the village take the Thika road for 2km to where it winds down to the Kiburu River bridge; 400m beyond this a turn left leads to the forest rest house. From Nairobi drive to Nyahururu (185km). Take the Nyeri road for 5km before turning south onto a dirt road which leads to the Shamata Gate in 25km. From the gate it is possible to drive a further 10km towards Satima. Matatus and buses serve Nyeri, Naivasha and Nyahururu regularly. From these Sollo, South Kinangop and Shamata respectively can be reached by public transport. From Solio it may be possible to get a lift to the Wandare Gate. It is advisable to telephone. the park HQ for permission to walk up from the gate. Petrol and garage facilities at Nyeri, Naivasha and Nyahururu. Water is available at all park gates. WALKING ROUTES Oldonyo Lesatima from the south.

From the 3600m saddle, a path north for 750m, then north-west for 4km follows the ridge avoiding minor hilltops to their left; the last 500m leads from a rough flat hilltop (3880m) to a slight col (3850m) in 1h45. The next one km is rocky and leads over another slight col (3860m), then up a steep slope to the summit plateau, 30 rain. The summit (3999m) lies 600m to the 5(10min). Allow an extra 1h30 if walking up from the hut/campsite. In descent, about 1h45 to the saddle, 2h30 to the hut. Oldonyo Lesatima from the north. Gain the highest point accessible on the track 2km south-east of The Twins (3560m); 45mm walk from The Twins.

Use buffalo trails to walk south-east and traverse, at about 3650m, to the head of a valley (draining west) below a west-facing cliff (2km, 45 mm). Continue south for one km till the ridge of cliffs ends (3720m). Now a broad, gentle ridge leads in 2km to a short, steeper step which leads south-east to the summit plateau (1h30). The summit lies 600m south (10min). Kinangop from South Kinangop. From the Rest House (2550m) follow the track north then east for about 4km; the first 3km is driveable (1h4 5). At 2940m the track levels, turns SE and starts to drop; here there is a large clearing on the left which marks the start of the path up the ridge to The Elephant. Once on the ridge the path is well defined to the hut (3540m), which is just above the bamboo forest; no water (2h30). The 4 summits of The Elephant (3591m) now lie a short way north.

Pass between the two west-most summits and drop down the other side for 200m, turn left down a steep gully then take the ridge north toward Kinangop. Keep on this, ignoring the main south ridge of the Kinangop which lies to the right (east). 3.5km from The Elephant, at 3700m, strike up right to join the south ridge (just below a volcanic outcrop) and follow it to the summit (3906m), 3h from the hut. Allow 4h back to the rest house. Traverse of the watershed. 3 to 4 days should be allowed for this major walk. Animal trails can be found most of the way, generally following the main watershed ridge. In bad weather this would be a very serious undertaking on account of the cold and possible problems with route finding. If paths are not followed the going is quite tedious. Overhangs provide good shelters at various points; if found these could save carrying tents. All recorded traverses so far have been carried out from The Twins, over Satima and Table Mountain to the Mutubio Gate, then over the Kinangop and Elephant to South Kinangop. Limited water on route.

Aberdare Range | mountain range, Kenya | Britannica.com Aberdare Range Drakensberg Aberdare Range, mountain range, forming a section of the eastern rim of the Great Rift Valley in west-central Kenya , northeast of Naivasha and Gilgil and just south of the Equator . The range has an average elevation of 11,000 feet (3,350 metres) and culminates in Oldoinyo Lesatima (13,120 feet [3,999 metres]) and Ilkinangop (12,815 feet [3,906 metres]). The Aberdares slope gradually east and southeast, providing a fine example of an immature, consequent drainage pattern, before the ground rises again to the cone of Mount Kenya (17,058 feet [5,199 metres]). Learn More in these related articles: in Kenya: Relief The Rift Valley splits the highland region into two sections: the Mau Escarpment to the west and the Aberdare Range to the east.

The valley itself is 30 to 80 miles (50 to 130 km) wide, and its floor rises from about 1,500 feet (450 metres) in the north around Lake Turkana (Lake Rudolf) to over 7,000 feet (2,100 metres) at Lake Naivasha but then drops to 2,000 feet (600 metres) at the Tanzanian... in East African mountains Mount Kenya, the Aberdare Range, and the Mau Escarpment are located wholly within Kenya to the north of Nairobi; Mount Elgon lies astride the Uganda-Kenya border; Kilimanjaro extends along Tanzania’s northern boundary with Kenya; and Mount Meru is in northern Tanzania. The Ruwenzori Range stretches between Lakes Edward and Albert on the Uganda-Congo border, and farther south the Virunga... 2 References found in Britannica Articles Assorted References Corrections? Updates? Help us improve this article! Contact our editors with your feedback. MEDIA FOR: You have successfully emailed this. Error when sending the email. Try again later. Edit Mode Submit Tips For Editing We welcome suggested improvements to any of our articles.

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Close Date Published: April 26, 2002 URL: Access Date: January 19, 2017 Share Expert Guide On Aberdare National Park In Central Kenya - AfricanMecca Safaris Aberdare GUIDE ON ABERDARE NATIONAL PARK IN KENYA Rare bongos, giant forest hogs and black rhinos are just some of the mammalian species that are found in Aberdare National Park in central Kenya. Listen closely to the sounds of the hoofed animals, such as a grunting buffalo or a clicking eland, as these resonances indicate the presence of leopards, hyenas and other hunters. Forest dwellers include colobus, vervet and sykes’ monkeys, as well as elephants, suni, red duiker, to name only a few of the species. Where you find monkeys, you may also spot a crowned eagle looking over the Aberdare highlands for a primate meal, and the high-pitched sounds that echo through the trees may be a silvery-cheeked hornbill.

More than 250 bird species have been identified in Aberdare Park, and your AfricanMecca guide helps you identify each species through size, habitat, coloring and behavior. Sunbirds are the most predominant species, and perhaps a splash of bright yellow and black amongst the leaves will draw your attention to a golden-winged sunbird. Pale chanting goshawks, sparrowhawks, Cape eagle and Mackinder's owls and other well-camouflaged species may be more challenging to locate on short stays, but sighting one of these hunting raptors is a highlight of a wondrous birdwatching tour of Kenya . The salient is an elephant migration corridor of dense forests and abundant wildlife, such as bush pig, dik-dik, bushbuck, reedbuck and other foragers. This is just a small sampling of the wildlife experiences that you will have at Aberdare National Park, located in the Great Rift Valley region of the Aberdare Mountains. The park covers an estimated 767 square kilometers (296 square miles), and elevations range from 1829 meters (6000 feet) to 4001 meters (13126 feet).

Dense forests and moorlands cover most of the area along with grasslands too, and these are sharply cut by rivers that flow through deep ravines and cascade down glorious waterfalls. The unique terrain can be navigated by foot, vehicle and even horseback in the private conservancy surrounding the Aberdare highlands, and you will certainly satisfy your every desire for an adventure-seeking holiday in East Africa. Hiking and leisurely walks are exploratory options for discovering the delicate flora, insects, amphibians and smaller mammals, while horseback safaris at Aberdare Country Club’s private conservancy ignite the romance of a country-style safari experience. If you want to see the greatest variety of habitats, AfricanMecca can arrange half and full day safari game drives in Aberdare Park . Large herds of elephants and buffalos walk amongst elands, impalas, zebras and other plains animals, and the ever-watchful predators are close-at-hand, yet well-hidden, such as serval cats that are found in the moorlands. You may also want to visit the other-worldly moorlands of Ol Donyo Le Satima, the third highest in Kenya.

During good weather, a 4x4 vehicle can manage the road to the foothills of the “young bull mountain”, and at 3350 meters (10,990 feet), the scenery is shrouded in mist, and the landscape is dominated by erica, lobelia, groundsel and other odd-looking alpine flora that reaches 6 meters (19 feet) in height. Fairmont Aberdare Country Club | Kenya Luxury Safari Lodges Aberdare Country Club - Kenya The Aberdare National Park - Mount Kenya Region The Aberdare Country Club nestles on the slopes of Mweiga Hill, just two hours drive from Nairobi on a good paved road. All rooms and cottages are comfortable with private bathroom facilities and have spectacular views of the plains below, the Aberdare Mountains to the west and Mount Kenya to the east. The club serves as a gateway to the popular 'tree lodge, The Ark, which is situated within the Salient of the Aberdare Mountains. Visitors usually stop over for lunch at the Club before they are transferred to the Ark. However, the Club is a delightful place to spend a night pre- or post-Ark.

Besides its excellent reputation for generous hospitality and fine international cuisine, the Club also offers a 9-hole golf course, where you will mingle with the resident antelope and baboon population, a 1,300 acre wildlife sanctuary, trout fishing and a gorgeous garden, swimming pool, horseback riding and tennis court for relaxation. The Club is also an excellent venue for conferences and special events. Location Nyeri is 197 km north of Nairobi (a 3 hour 30 minute drive). The hotel stands above a gorge through which flows the Chania River. Set in rolling gardens, it features numerous ancient trees and flowering shrubs. Kenya hotels and accommodation Amongst the wide range of Kenya hotels, some make the ideal Kenya safari destination. Choose a safari lodge, safari hotel, bush camp, luxury lodge, safari camp, tented camp or bush lodge. National park accommodation usually takes the form of a traditional safari lodge or tented camp, but numerous other options exist on the park boundaries. Luxury lodges and luxury camp options are also offered in the private wildlife conservancies.

The Background The Aberdare National Park Highlands, moorlands, peaks and falls Aptly dubbed ‘Scotland with Lions', this atmospheric park showcases the chill, wild and beautiful moorlands of the Aberdare mountain range. An often mist-wreathed realm where elephants roam through lichen-hung forests; spectacular waterfalls plunge into churning pools, and trout-filled streams cascade through mossy dells, it offers matchless views of the glittering coronet of Mount Kenya and the sparkling lakes of the Great Rift Valley. Believed by the Kikuyu to be one of the homes of Ngai (God), the area became known as the ‘White Highlands' in the 1920's, due to the large numbers of Europeans who settled there. During the 1950's, the dense forests and bamboo thickets were the scene of intense guerrilla warfare between the British and the ‘Mau Mau' freedom fighters of Kenya, while the famous ‘Treetops' Hotel was where the young Princess Elizabeth heard she had become Queen Elizabeth II of England.

Wildlife highlights: colobus monkey, leopard, lion, serval cat, elephant, warthog, black rhino, giant forest hog, reed and bushbuck, buffalo, duiker, suni, eland and the rare bongo antelope. Birds: 250 recorded species. Accommodation There are 28 twins and 20 double-bedded rooms, 38 of which are in cottages. A total of 107 guests can be catered for. The bedrooms are tastefully furnished and all have private bathrooms with showers and telephones. The cottages have two bedrooms, each with interconnecting doors, and most have fireplaces. Two of the double-bedded rooms are now in the "Honeysuckle Cottage". A balcony provides superb views of either Mount Kenya or a pretty woodland where bushbuck often come to graze. Room facilities • Views of Mount Kenya or pretty woodland Dining and bars The club offers an elegant dining room with indoor and outdoor seating and glorious views. Meals are usually buffet-styled and offer international and local cuisine. The club also offers a comfortable bar area. Meals can also be taken in the bush, as can sundowners.

Conferences meetings and events The Club offers conference facilities with a choice of four interconnecting rooms, accommodating groups of 10 to 100 people depending on the layout. Each room is equipped with a full range of audio-visual equipment Child-friendly What to see and do • 9-hole golf course and a putting green • swimming pool • gardens • night game drives and game walks in the wildlife sanctuary • Game drives in Mount Kenya National Park, Solio Ranch, Sweetwaters and the Salient within the Aberdare National Park • Bush lunches Aberdare National Park | Kenya Travel Tips & Reviews | Africa Point Aberdare National Park | Kenya Travel Tips & Reviews | Africa Point 35 Buffalo, Aberdare National Park, Kenya Elephant, Aberdare National Park, Kenya Talk to a Safari Expert on the Ground +1 202 8880593 Aberdare National Park Snapshot Get ready to enjoy one of the most scenic National Parks in Kenya! The Aberdare National Park uniquely combines two very different eco-systems, making it one of Kenya’s most unusual safari destinations. A variety of animals thrive in the forested lower mountain slopes and birding is outstanding!

Come with us to experience the charm and unique beauty of the Aberdare Mountains at first hand. January and February, or June to September. Share this: Plan your Aberdare Adventure Aberdare National Park was established to protect the Aberdare Mountains in Kenya’s Central Highlands. It is the country’s most elevated national park and encompasses a rare combination of soaring peaks, a high altitude plateau with alpine moorland, and dense rainforest at the lower altitudes. Some of the main features of the topography include: Soaring Peaks (Lesatima and Kinangop reach 4500 mt!) Deep craggy ravines Unique alpine flora at the high altitudes Dense tropical rainforest on the lower slopes The scenery is so remarkable that the locals reverently call the Aberdares the home of Ngai (God). The entire park is just perfect to explore on foot and attracts many adventurous hikers and trekkers each year. The less energetic have several other options including game drives and even excellent game viewing from the deck of one of the two forest lodges that have been strategically built around water holes and salt licks, to ensure an ever-present passing parade of wildlife.

Aberdare National Park Highlights include: Hiking through the Salient Forest Game drives Flood-lit night game viewing from your lodge Bird watching Horse Riding and Golf nearby Hiking One of the most popular pursuits in the Aberdare NP is hiking through the Salient Forest, which is bisected by deep ravines and features some really spectacular waterfalls. This area has one of the densest concentrations of wildlife in Kenya ensuring an exciting and rewarding excursion. As you continue to climb through the forest you will reach a belt of bamboo woodland, which is the favourite haunt of the Bongo, a very rare type of forest antelope. Continuing your ascent you will soon reach the alpine moorland, which is criss-crossed by beautiful clear trout streams – the perfect place to stop for a picnic or to try your hand at some fly-fishing – fishing licences are available at the Lodges or at the KWS for US$20-30. One of the best hiking routes takes you to Kimanthi Hideout, also known as the Queens Cave, where you can stop for a picnic lunch. Since you will be hiking inside a National Park that is home to potentially dangerous animals, you will need to be accompanied by an armed ranger.

It will cost you US$20 to hire a KWS (Kenya Wildlife Services) ranger for a half-day hike, while a full day will cost US$40. The rangers are very knowledgeable about the park and will share a wealth of knowledge with you during the hike. If you want a unique opportunity to see large mammals like elephants, lions, hyenas and rhinos really close-up, then stay in one of the two forest lodges in the park, built right next to the waterholes and saltlicks. Queen Elizabeth II was staying in one of these lodges in 1952 when she was informed of her accession to the throne. There are also huts and camp sites, both self-catering and “special”. Outside the park, there is a country club and some comfortable lodges in Mweiga and Nyeri. Game Drives You can enjoy all the splendour of the park without having to walk or hike, and many visitors prefer to enjoy all the scenery and wildlife from the comfort of their safari vehicle. The lodges offer full day game drives to the moorlands, and half-day game drives in the game-rich Salient Forest region.

There is also a traditional Sundowner Game Drive on offer, which allows you to watch the dramatic African sunset from a scenic view point while enjoying a refreshing drink. If time permits you can also choose a game drive to the near-by Solio Ranch, to get up close and personal with some of their Rhino. Floodlit Night Game Viewing Two of the most popular lodges in the Aberdare NP have been specially built to enable game viewing without even leaving your lodge! The large viewing decks overlook a flood-lit water hole and salt lick, which are frequented by many animals just about around the clock! You can even request a wake-up call should there be a really good sighting during the night! Bird Watching With over 250 recorded species of birds to look out for, bird watchers will have a busy time here. Spend a relaxing morning on the viewing deck with binoculars at hand, or get active and go on a bird-watching walk. Mountain Climbing Keen mountaineers can arrange to scale Lesatima or Kinangop, the two highest mountain peaks, on a guided expedition.

Horse Riding If you can tear yourself away from the superb scenery of the Aberdare National Park, horse riding and golf are available at the near-by Aberdare Country Club. We understand that the Perfect Visit to Aberdare National Park will mean different things to different people! Depending on your interests you may want to stay in this beautiful little corner of paradise for a couple of days, to go hiking, trekking or even climbing the peaks. Other visitors may just want a quick look! Aberdare National Park is very centrally situated, which makes it easy to include in your personalized safari itinerary to Maasai Mara or Lake Nakuru. See some of our most popular Itineraries including Aberdare National Park here: What to See The scenery in Aberdare National Park is very different from what visitors to some of Kenya’s other parks may be used to. For example, the Maasai Mara is famous for vast expanses of fairly flat open savannah, while Aberdare National Park is very mountainous and covered in dense forest. Some of the highlights of this park are: The scenery in Aberdare National Park is very different from what visitors to some of Kenya’s other parks may be used to.

For example, the Maasai Mara is famous for vast expanses of fairly flat open savannah, while Aberdare National Park is very mountainous and covered in dense forest. Some of the highlights of this park are: Waterfalls Many visitors to Aberdare NP come here purely for the spectacular scenery. This is wild Africa as you imagine it existed centuries ago – a mystical and magical volcanic landscape featuring many tall cascading waterfalls, of which Chania, Karuru and Maragua are the most arresting. Karuru is especially dramatic, as it drops a total of 273mt in a series of 3 steps. Wildlife Aberdare is home to all of the Big Five, although finding them in the dense vegetation of the forest is a little more challenging than the open savannahs of some of the other Big Five parks.

These are some of the animals you can expect to see, (providing that you give yourself enough time to seek them out – you would need several days in the park if you hope to cross them all off your list!) We will start with those that are most commonly spotted: African gold-headed Eagle Many territorial Elephants and Buffalo visit the permanent water holes and salt-licks adjacent to the two main lodges and can very easily be viewed from the deck, or the hides at both lodges. Where to Stay at Aberdare National Park There are just two Lodges inside the Park, namely Treetops Lodge and the very unusual and downright quirky The Ark Lodge, which has been built to resemble Noah’s Ark. The Aberdare Treetops Lodge is quite unique! It first opened in 1932 and was literally built into the tops of the huge trees in the park, resembling a giant tree-house. The original modest two room tree house has grown into a 50 room lodge, still occupying the original site overlooking a water hole. It is built on stilts and has four observation decks and a rooftop viewing platform from where you can enjoy sweeping views over the park.

There is also a ground level hide, reached via a tunnel, where you can get really up close to the animals visiting the water hole – a great place to get some amazing close-up photos. The Ark Lodge maintains its theme right down to calling the rooms “cabins”, and the floors “decks”. Each cabin is en-suite and all look out over the park, while the Deck C houses the restaurant and other common facilities. There are large viewing decks overlooking the water hole and a hide for close-up photography in complete safety. Outside the park there is also the Aberdare Country Club, the Solio Lodge and some comfortable accommodation options in both Nyeri and Mweiga towns. How to Get to the Aberdare National Park Aberdare NP is situated about 170 kms from Nairobi, and it takes about 3 to 3.5 hours to drive to the parks headquarters via Nyeri. If you are staying at one of the forest lodges you will be transported there by shuttle bus. It is possible to self-drive in the park, but you will need a 4X4. You can also choose to fly into one of the two airstrips at Mweiga and Nyeri and transfer by shuttle.

Best Time to Visit Aberdare National Park Aberdare is generally viewed as a year-round destination, but since hiking and walking are far pleasanter during the dry months, we suggest you come between June and September or January and February. Are you ready to get back to Nature at the amazing Aberdare National Park? Choose one of our amazing Kenya Safaris that visit Aberdare or speak to one of our consultants right now and get the perfect Aberdare safari itinerary to suit your tastes and budget. Would you like to find out more about what to expect on safari in Kenya? Whet your appetite with our blog post on A Typical Day on Safari Read more about wonderful holidays in Africa here: Inspiration from our blog Like & Share Aberdare National Park: Reviews for Aberdare National Park Wayne Hazle 19th February 2015 Went to Treetops. it was an amazing and unique place. I wish I had taken time to go into Aberdare on a drive. I did not get to see as much game as I would have like. I would definitely go back again. Stefan Bollier 20th February 2015 Many thanks for your review Wayne.

A game drive in Aberdare National Park is very special indeed - even more so as the scenery is very different to most of the other parks. Eddah Oliech 6th February 2015 I first visited the park during my primary days, and it was an amazing experience. It was the first park I had ever visited, the first time I had seen animals in the wild and my first game drive. We spent our first night at the Aberdare Country Club and then proceeded to the Ark where we spent another two nights. The watering hole at the Ark gave us a chance to see Elephants, Buffaloes and a few Giraffes as they came to quench their thirst :-). I experienced the park again more recently when I participated in the Great Run drive last year, we managed to see a few buffaloes and Elephants and quite a number of Columbus Monkeys. We also got to trek to the waterfall which is a magical location to say the least. I loved the scenery as we drove from one end of the park to the other. Definitely an experience one must have. Stefan Bollier 6th February 2015 Many thanks for your review Eddah!

We are big fans of Aberdare as well - last time we visited we were fortunate enough to see a couple of Cheetah and a Leopard who was just having a little rest right next to the road. Incredible to get to see these animals up close. We wish you very happy travels and keep us posted about your adventures! Stew Shang 10th September 2014 We visited the park several years ago. We stayed at the Aberdares Country Club and took safaris into the Salient forest from there. Aberdares Country Club is nicer than the cramped quarters of the two lodges. They have done a full refurbishment of the Club since we were there. It is more relaxing and you are on your own schedule. You can also horseback ride and play golf on the 9 hole chip and putt course with the animals on the greens, on the club grounds. But this is personal choice, don't like being woken up every few minutes to get a glimpse of an animal in the freezing cold. The Salient is BEAUTIFUL! And so are the falls. Many Cape Buffalo and Elephants are indigenous to the park.

If you are lucky you will see the Colobus Monkeys in the trees. Bring warm clothes, morning is freezing and the high elevation in the park is very cold. We took full day safaris deep into the park in land cruiser to see the falls. Great sighting of game and the vistas. Kenya Articles Kenya OFFICIAL NAME: Republic of Kenya FORM OF GOVERNMENT: Republic AREA: 224,081 square miles (580,367 square kilometers) MAJOR MOUNTAIN RANGES: Aberdare Range, Mau Escarpment MAJOR RIVERS: Athi/Galana, Tana Map of Kenya GEOGRAPHY Even if you've never been to Kenya, chances are you know what it looks like. Kenya's savanna is familiar from movies, TV shows, books, and commercials. It's the landscape many people imagine when they think of Africa. Kenya is located in East Africa. Its terrain rises from a low coastal plain on the Indian Ocean to mountains and plateaus at its center. Most Kenyans live in the highlands, where Nairobi, the capital, sits at an altitude of 5,500 feet (1,700 meters).

West of Nairobi the land descends to the Great Rift Valley, a 4,000-mile (6,400-kilometer) tear in the Earth's crust. Within this valley in the deserts of northern Kenya are the jade-green waters of famous Lake Turkana. PEOPLE & CULTURE In Kenya, more than 60 languages are spoken and there are more than 40 ethnic groups. Almost everyone there speaks more than one African language. School is free in Kenya, but many children are too busy to go to classes. They help their families by working the land, tending cattle, cooking, or fetching water. Music and storytelling are important parts of Kenyan culture. For centuries, tribes throughout the country have used songs, stories, and poems to pass on their beliefs, history, and customs. NATURE Millions of people visit Kenya each year to see its endless savanna and the animals that inhabit it: elephants , lions , cheetahs , giraffes , zebras , hippos , rhinos , and more. The Kenyan government has set up more than 50 reserves and parks to protect these animals. People seeking African wildlife usually focus on Kenya's lowland savannas.

But Kenya's ecosystems also include deserts, swamps, mountain, and forests. Each region has its own mix of plants and animals that are suited to the area's particular conditions. Kenya's highland forests are home to many animals found nowhere else in the world. Kenyan Shilling, Geography of Kenya, Landforms - World Atlas Print this map From its Indian Ocean coastline, Kenya's flat land rises into central highlands. Those highlands are the site of the country's highest point; Mount Kenya, standing at 5,199 m (17,057 ft). The Kenyan highlands are bisected by the Great Rift Valley; a valley that divides Kenya down the length of the entire country. It contains all but uninhabitable desert, flat arid plains, steep cliffs and slopes, and in some areas, very fertile farmland. In the Rift Valley there are some active and semi-active volcanoes, along with numerous hot springs. Also found in the valley are a string of alkaline lakes including Lake Turkana (formerly Lake Rudolf), the world's largest permanent desert lake and the world's largest alkaline lake.

Additional lakes across the valley include Lake Baringo, Lake Bogoria, Lake Nakuru, Lake Elementaita, Lake Naivasha, and Lake Magadi in the far south. In the far north, Chalbi Desert, on the edge of Lake Turkana, is Kenya's only true desert. Surrounded by volcanoes and ancient lava flows, it's the hottest and most arid region in the country. As for rivers, the 440-mile Tana River is the longest river in Kenya. The river rises in the Aberdare Mountains to the west of Nyeri, then eventually drains into the Indian Ocean at Formosa Bay.

Question: The Aberdare mountains are in which African country?
Answer: KENYA